43-year old coach resigned after the defeat with 0:3 by Olimpija on Sunday in Ljudski vrt. His successor is not known yet. For now the team will be coached by Saša Gajser, until now Šimundža's assistant.

"We were very successful for a couple of years, but unfortunately we have reached the point where the energy required for achieving high goals is simply lacking. I am leaving the bench, but I remain proud both as the former player and the coach, and violet colour will always be dear to my heart," Šimundža said.

The sport manager Zlatko Zahović was also present at the press conference. "I must thank Ante for his work; with him we have achieved our greatest successes. But sport is unpredictable, and not always our wishes are fulfilled. Yesterday the team which had stronger wish to succeed won, and not necessarily the better team," Zahović said.

Šimundža was swept away by the poor start of the season. The worst blow came in the end of July, when Astana from Kazakhstan succeeded in eliminating Maribor in the second preliminary round of the Champions League, which meant the end of the European season.

They failed to realize their plans in the national championship as well. They managed to collect ten points in six rounds, with three victories, one draw, and two defeats.

R. K., MMC
Translated by G. K.